A heavily modified 2000 Mercedes-Benz G500 has appeared for auction on Bring a Trailer, combining the original G-Class’s naturally aspirated V8 with extensive off-road upgrades inspired by the much newer Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4².
Originally built for the German market, this long-wheelbase W463 G500 was imported into the United States in 2025 before undergoing a substantial transformation by Banyan Motors in Houston, Texas. The finished vehicle is now being offered by Private Collection Motors in Costa Mesa, California.
The most obvious change is its imposing stance. The standard suspension arrangement has been replaced with a LeTech dual suspension setup and portal axles, giving the G500 the sort of extreme off-road hardware normally associated with specialised expedition vehicles.
Portal axles position the wheel centres below the axle’s main drive components, increasing ground clearance without relying entirely on larger tyres or a conventional suspension lift. Combined with 18-inch LeTech beadlock wheels and enormous 37-inch Pro Comp tyres, the modifications give this Mercedes a considerably more aggressive appearance.
The exterior has also undergone a complete transformation. Originally finished in Tektite Grey Metallic, the G500 now wears Coyote Brown Magno paint, complemented by wider wheelarches, custom LED roof lighting, additional front lighting protection and a redesigned grille.
Heavy-duty LeTech steel bumpers have been fitted at both ends, with the front incorporating a Raw Machine Raptor winch rated at 13,500lb. Other additions include dual snorkels, side steps, a rear-mounted spare wheel carrier, steel rear gullwing windows and protective skid plates.
Despite its rugged exterior, the cabin has received a luxurious makeover. The seats and door panels have been retrimmed in Saddle leather featuring distinctive octagonal stitching and black piping, while the original wood trim has been replaced with darker finishes.
Further interior upgrades include a microsuede headlining, AMG gear selector, heated front seats, air conditioning and a Kenwood CD stereo. Subwoofers mounted beneath the front seats provide additional audio equipment without significantly changing the cabin’s original layout.
Under the bonnet sits Mercedes-Benz’s 5.0-litre M113 naturally aspirated V8, producing a factory-rated 291bhp and approximately 456Nm of torque. Power is delivered through a five-speed automatic gearbox, a dual-range transfer case and locking front, centre and rear differentials.
The digital odometer displays approximately 1,900 miles, although the vehicle’s total mileage is unknown. The auction listing also includes a build sheet, a clean Carfax report and a Montana title.
The modified Mercedes-Benz G500 forms part of the Iconic Collection from Private Collection Motors on Bring a Trailer. No confirmed final selling price has been provided, leaving its eventual auction value to be determined.
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